By Solomon OKPO
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsibiet John, has commended the Senator representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, Senator Ekong Sampson, for placing premium value on the capacity building of journalists in the district.
Comrade John gave the commendation on Tuesday, January 6, 2025, during the Nigerian Press Council Symposium for Media Professionals in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, facilitated by Senator Sampson at the Nelson Mandela Hall of Watbridge Hotels.
Describing the initiative as unprecedented, the NUJ Chairman praised the Senator’s sustained commitment to professional training and skills enhancement for journalists, noting that such deliberate investment directly strengthens democratic governance and societal development.
“I am honoured to grace this symposium facilitated by my own Senator, who is also a journalist. His commitment to capacity building for journalists in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District is unprecedented. He has raised the bar in representation, and I am proud of all he has accomplished,” Comrade John stated.
He further emphasized that empowering journalists ultimately translates to empowering society, given the critical role of the media in shaping public opinion, promoting accountability, and advancing development.
The symposium focused on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), strategic media practice, and sustainable development in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District. Professor Peter Esuh delivered the keynote address, while Professor Herbert Batta, Dr. Idongesit Ashameri, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso, presented papers on contemporary media and development issues.
In his remarks, Senator Ekong Sampson expressed appreciation to media professionals from Eket Senatorial District for their consistent support, describing his two years in the Senate as impactful, marked by visible interventions in empowerment and infrastructure.
The Senator assured participants that the capacity-building initiative would be extended to other media professionals within the year. He also paid glowing tribute to Comrade Nsibiet John, describing him as a dependable ally and a strong, principled voice for journalists in Akwa Ibom State.
The symposium reinforced growing calls for sustained investment in media professionalism as a cornerstone for transparent governance and inclusive development in the state and beyond.
The Evangelist News
